Search Results for: material handling

Negative Aspects of Material Handling Systems

Abey Francis

It is bad engineering and worse management practice to look only at benefits and to ignore limitations. Handling systems, at times, have consequences that may be distinctly negative. These too, should be evaluated before the changes are adopted. Some such possible disadvantages are

1) Additional capital investment:

It must be verified that the cost of the handling system is more attractively invested in the system under consideration than in any other part of the business. It should be assured that the gains expected are not based upon a more mechanized system v/s present practice, but rather the proposed new system v/s the best version of present practice.… Read the rest

Efficiency of Material Handling Systems

Abey Francis

The efficiency of material handling could be judged by the following principles:

1. “Equipment built for motion should be kept in motion; idle Equipment should be kept inexpensive”.

2.”Continuous material movement is most economical”

This principle states that materials handling efficiency is Greatest when it approaches a steady flow of materials, in as straight as possible, with minimum interpretations and minimum backtracking and where movements approach continues rather than intermittent flow. It is not; always possible, in practice, to completely achieve the objective of this rule. However, it is the target towards which we Aim our thinking. Conveyors systems, both overhead and floor types, are excellent examples of the application of this idea.… Read the rest

Principles of Material Handling

Abey Francis
Material Handling is the art of implementing movement of materials-economically and safely. In the classic sense, Material Handling is the act of creating Time and Place utility, as distinct from Manufacturing, which creates form utility. The proper application of Material Handling knowledge will result in the smooth integration of all the process in an enterprise into one efficient Production Machine.

The principles presented here represent an accumulation of experience equivalent to untold years of practice. They are adapted from those stated in the literature, with certain changes made for clarification and with several new one added to round out the coverage of the field.… Read the rest

Objectives of Material Handling

Abey Francis

Materials handling may be defined as the art and science of movement, handling and storage of materials during different stages of manufacturing considered as material flow into, through and away from the plant. It is in fact, the technique of getting the right goods safely, to the right place, at the right time and at the right cost.

All tangible and intangible benefits can be reduced to four major objectives. The application of material handling methods and equipment to be of greatest benefits should be governed by the following:

1) Reduced Costs:

Cost-Reduction programs have two broad goals; either to reduce the cost of Material Handling or to reduce total production cost; by improved handling procedures.… Read the rest

Concept of Material Handling – Definition and Functions

Abey Francis

Material Handling involves the movement of material, manually or mechanically in batches or one item at a time within the plant. The movement may be horizontal, vertical or combination of horizontal or vertical. Material Handling is the movement, storage, control and protection of materials, goods and products throughout the process of manufacturing, distribution, consumption and disposal. The focus is on the methods, mechanical equipment, systems and related controls used to achieve these functions. Briefly, Material Handling is the moving of materials from the raw stage through production to ultimate Customer with the least expenditure of time and effort so as to produce maximum Productive Efficiency at the lowest Material Handling cost.… Read the rest

Receiving and Shipping Function of Materials Management

Abey Francis

The principal function of receiving and shipping include deliveries of inbound and outbound freight, inspection, and transfer to and from storage.   Efficient processing of materials at these points is essential for effective stock control, production, and customer satisfaction.

Receiving takes delivery of inbound shipments and releases and materials to inventory.   The major responsibilities include:

  1. Control and scheduling of deliveries.
  2. Accurate checking and recording of shipments received.
  3. Preparation for handling and storage.

Whenever possible, deliveries should be scheduled to balance the workload throughout the day.   For instance, deliveries from local vendors should be requested for the morning hours so that sufficient personnel and equipment are available for processing outbound shipments, which normally peak later in the day.… Read the rest